Aid Agencies Seek Urgent International Support as Afghanistan Earthquake Leaves Thousands Homeless
Multiple earthquakes in Afghanistan’s western province of Heraton have caused widespread devastation, leaving thousands of people homeless. As the local authorities call for urgent assistance, aid agencies have launched fresh appeals for funds to address the fallout of this natural disaster. The war-torn country, which heavily relied on foreign aid, has seen a reduction in support since the Taliban takeover in 2021.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has issued a statement urging immediate international help. They highlight that their previous appeal for 120 million Swiss Francs ($132.64 million) remains critically underfunded, with only 36% of the target amount raised so far. UNICEF has also joined in, appealing for an initial $20 million to respond to the earthquakes. It is worth noting that 90% of the death toll comprises women and children.
There have been conflicting reports on the death toll from Afghanistan’s Taliban-run government. While the disaster management ministry claims that over 2,400 people have died, the health ministry confirms just over 1,000 deaths. The United Nations’ humanitarian office puts the death toll at 1,294, but these figures may change as more information is gathered from remote areas.
The office of Herat Governor Noor Ahmad Islamjar has emphasized the urgent need for assistance, particularly tents, and has met with UN agency officials to convey this message. The disaster management ministry reports that over 1,900 houses, housing approximately 10,000 people, in 20 villages have been destroyed. As survivors brave falling autumn temperatures, many remain without shelter.
The Afghan Red Crescent’s spokesperson, Erfanullah Sharafzoi, stated that 98% of the rescue operation has been completed. However, the organization’s 32 medical and rescue teams will remain at the affected location. There is no official confirmation from Taliban officials regarding when the rescue operation will officially conclude.
The aftermath of the earthquakes in Afghanistan highlights the dire situation in the country, where decades of war have left infrastructure in ruins. Coordinating relief and rescue efforts remains a significant challenge. International support is critical to assist the thousands of homeless individuals and provide them with essential resources.
As the world comes together to help Afghanistan recover from this natural disaster, aid agencies are mobilizing their efforts. The urgent appeal for international support seeks to provide much-needed aid to those affected by the earthquakes. It is a race against time to offer assistance to the vulnerable victims, many of whom are women and children, who are left without shelter amidst freezing temperatures.
